9 Sea Fishing Tackle Tips for Beginner Offshore Anglers

In the world of saltwater angling, offshore fishing is one of the most adventurous and highly-acclaimed pursuits you can find. The boats are bigger, the water is deeper, the fish are stronger, the hours are longer, and the investment is greater; in time, money, and energy. Those who invest in offshore pursuits are generally in it for the long haul. If you’re just getting started in the offshore world, you should know some basic sea fishing tackle tips to make your time on the deep sea more efficient.

Sea Fishing Tackle Tips

1. Keep your fishing tackle organized onboard! It will spare you a headache when you find the urgent need to change out tackle.
2. Use stainless steel wire leader when targeting fish with sharp teeth such as kingfish, barracuda, mackerel, and sharks.
3. For other species, a heavy fluorocarbon leader line such as 60 to 80-pound test should be sufficient. If the fish is leader-shy, shoot for the lighter-weight.
4. If bottom fishing, use braided main line with test strength of 50 to 80-pounds and a leader longer than 20-feet. Rig with heavy lead weights to sink bait to the bottom.
5. For trolling, the reel should be loaded with monofilament for the main line. Use large diving lures with a lip to troll deepwater or use a topwater or popper lure to attract fish near the surface.
6. Keep a pitch bait rod handy to cast live bait at fish near the surface.
7. Bucktail jigs are an offshore staple, keep a rod rigged with a bucktail for moments when you need to cast quickly.
8. Use skirts or dusters to give your bait more life-like action.
9. Of all sea fishing rig tips, pre-rigging leaders is highly recommended. Time is of the essence when you’re “in the fish” and it may be the only shot you get all day. Pre-rig your leaders and spare yourself the fumbling fingers onboard.

Now that you’re studied up on these key sea fishing tackle tips, you’ll need to purchase your fishing license. If you’re already licensed, check out more sea fishing rig tips such as deep sea knots or saltwater fishing rigs. Happy fishing!